On October 2, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nonfarm payrolls increased by 29,000 in September 2026, while the unemployment rate was 4.2%. BLS described both measures as little changed. These are seasonally adjusted national estimates.
The revision matters too: July payrolls now show a loss of 10,000 jobs, and August a gain of 133,000. Together, those two months were revised down by 60,000 from the previous release. September payroll figures remain preliminary.
Payroll growth comes from the establishment survey; the unemployment rate comes from the household survey. Neither series measures Southern California rents, vacancies, or the demand for a particular home. This release alone does not establish that a property's rent should rise or fall.
A quick leasing check
- Compare recent inquiries, showings, applications, and signed leases with your property's own recent history.
- Check nearby comparable listings, including asking rent, concessions, and how long they have been available.
- Review upcoming lease expirations and vacancy costs before changing price or lease length.
Sources
BLS Employment Situation, released October 2, 2026; data period: September 2026, with July–August revisions. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm
BLS seasonally adjusted summary tables A and B: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.a.htm https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.b.htm
